How to Plan a Day Trip to Athirappilly Waterfalls from Kochi”

Athirappilly Waterfalls, often referred to as the “Niagara of India,” is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the Thrissur district of Kerala. Cascading from a height of 80 feet, this majestic waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is a perfect getaway for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and photography enthusiasts. If you’re in Kochi and looking for a one-day escape into nature, a day trip to Athirappilly Waterfalls is an excellent choice. This guide will help you plan your trip efficiently, covering travel details, places to visit along the way, activities to do, nearby tourist attractions, and wildlife experiences.

1. Distance and Best Route from Kochi to Athirappilly

The distance from Kochi to Athirappilly Waterfalls is approximately 70 kilometers, and it takes around 2 to 2.5 hours to reach by road, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The best route to take is:

Route:
Kochi → Aluva → Perumbavoor → Kodanad → Chalakudy → Athirappilly

This route offers scenic views of Kerala’s countryside, small villages, and the winding roads through the Western Ghats.

2. Best Time to Visit Athirappilly Waterfalls

• Monsoon Season (June – September): The waterfall is at its fullest, creating a magnificent spectacle. However, roads can be slippery due to heavy rains.
• Post-Monsoon (October – February): The best time to visit, with pleasant weather and lush green surroundings.
• Summer (March – May): The flow reduces slightly, but the beauty of the place remains intact.

For a day trip, start early from Kochi, ideally around 6:00 AM, to reach Athirappilly by 8:30 AM and make the most of your visit.

3. Places to Visit on the Way

Your road trip from Kochi to Athirappilly is as exciting as the destination itself. Here are some places you can explore on the way:

a) Aluva Shiva Temple

• Located on the banks of the Periyar River, this temple is one of the oldest in Kerala.
• Offers a peaceful ambiance and a great place to take a short break.

b) Kodanad Elephant Training Center

• One of the major elephant training centers in Kerala, is located near Perumbavoor.
• Visitors can watch baby elephants being bathed and trained.
• A great place for kids and wildlife enthusiasts.

c) Ezhattumugham Prakriti Gramam

• A hidden gem near Chalakudy, known for its picturesque landscapes.
• Offers a walking bridge over the Chalakudy River, ideal for photography.

d) Thumboormuzhi Dam and Butterfly Garden

• A beautiful dam with lush gardens, walking trails, and a butterfly park.
• A great spot for nature lovers before reaching Athirappilly.

4. Athirappilly Waterfalls – Description & Highlights

Athirappilly Waterfalls is the largest waterfall in Kerala and is formed by the Chalakudy River. Surrounded by dense forests and the Western Ghats, the view of water gushing down from a height of 80 feet is mesmerizing.

Highlights of Athirappilly Waterfalls:

• A short trek leads to the base of the waterfall, where you can feel the mist and hear the roaring sound of water.
• Popular for film shootings, including Bollywood movies like Bahubali and Dil Se.
• Ideal for nature walks, picnics, and bird watching.

Entry Fee:

• ₹30 per person
• Parking charges extra

Timings:

• 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

5. Things to Do at Athirappilly Waterfalls

a) Trek to the Base of the Waterfall

• A 10-15 minute moderately challenging trek leads to the bottom of the falls.
• Be cautious as the rocks can be slippery.

b) Photography & Sightseeing

• The falls provide a stunning backdrop for photography.
• Perfect for capturing the grandeur of Kerala’s monsoon-fed beauty.

c) Picnic by the River

• There are many open spaces near the falls where you can relax and enjoy a packed meal.

d) Bird Watching

• The surrounding forests are home to the Great Hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill, and many migratory birds.

6. Nearby Tourist Attractions

a) Vazhachal Waterfalls (5 km from Athirappilly)

• Located close to Athirappilly, these falls are equally mesmerizing but less crowded.
• Ideal for relaxing and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

b) Charpa Waterfalls (3 km from Athirappilly)

• A seasonal waterfall that flows with full force during monsoons.
• Located en route to Vazhachal Falls.

c) Malakkappara Tea Estate (40 km from Athirappilly)

• A scenic drive through lush green tea plantations.
• A great place to sip fresh tea and experience plantation life.

7. Wildlife at Athirappilly & Surrounding Forests

Athirappilly and Vazhachal are part of the Sholayar Rainforest, which is home to diverse wildlife, including:

• Elephants: Herds of wild elephants are occasionally seen near the waterfalls.
• Lion-tailed Macaques: A rare species found in the forests of this region.
• Sambar Deer & Gaur: Often spotted near forested areas.
• Great Hornbill: The region is famous for sightings of these majestic birds.

The area is part of a proposed eco-sensitive zone, ensuring the protection of its unique flora and fauna.

8. Travel Tips for a Hassle-Free Trip

• Start early: Leaving Kochi by 6:00 AM ensures a full day to explore.
• Wear comfortable footwear: The trek to the falls can be slippery.
• Carry snacks and water: Food options near the waterfalls are limited.
• Avoid plastic: Athirappilly is an eco-sensitive area; dispose of waste responsibly.
• Monsoon safety: If visiting in monsoon, check weather updates, as heavy rains may cause roadblocks.

9. Where to Eat Near Athirappilly

There are a few local eateries and restaurants near Athirappilly:

• KTDC Restaurant: Serves Kerala-style meals and snacks.
• Local Thattukadas (Street Stalls): Try Kerala parotta with beef curry or fish fry.

10. Conclusion

A day trip from Kochi to Athirappilly Waterfalls is one of the best ways to experience Kerala’s breathtaking natural beauty in a short time. The combination of scenic road trips, wildlife encounters, and the grandeur of waterfalls makes it a perfect getaway. Whether you’re an adventure lover, nature enthusiast, or someone looking for a peaceful retreat, Athirappilly will leave you spellbound.

So, pack your bags, hit the road, and let the roaring waters of Athirappilly refresh your soul!